Last year, Huntley Police Chief Linda Hooten’s appointment was brand new when National Night Out (NNO) events took place.
This year’s annual Huntley NNO event will take place Aug. 5. Locations will be First Responders Softball Game, with Huntley Fire Department, at 2 pm., at Sun City’s Veterans Memorial Field, then at Huntley Town Square, at 5 p.m.
Huntley Police Chief Linda Hooten. (Photo provided)
Hooten, then a deputy chief, was formally appointed police chief on June 7, 2024, as the Village Board named her to succeed Robert Porter. Hooten has served as a Huntley Police Department officer since 2001 and held other responsibilities.
“I have wanted to be a police officer since I was in middle school,” Hooten said. “I had my sights set on law enforcement and have never looked back. You never know what your day will be and have to adapt on the spot. I don’t know any other profession I would want to be a part of. I am extremely blessed to be part of this noble profession.”
Hooten graduated from Western Illinois University with a double Bachelor of Arts degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration and Psychology and a minor in Public Communications and Human Relations. She had been in charge of both the Support Services Bureau and the Patrol Services Bureau, also a School Resource Officer st Huntley High School; certified as a juvenile officer and a D.A.R.E. school resource officer and others.
Hooten responded to questions from My Sun Day News.
Could you sum up your first year as police chief?
Hooten: “It’s hard to believe a year has passed. The first year has been spent balancing the new leadership team and remaining on track with our annual goals. I cannot adequately describe the feeling of being sworn in as an internal police chief last year. I began my career at Huntley at a young age, and it has afforded me numerous great opportunities over the years. I never set out to be a police chief. I just wanted to do my job well and serve the community. I am honored to be leading the department and fortunate to have a dedicated staff, a supportive Mayor and Board of Trustees and a wonderful community behind me.”
Describe what you have enjoyed most in your first 12 months as police chief?
Hooten: “I’ve enjoyed the new challenges, from starting new initiatives – it’s been exciting to see staff members excel in their roles, bringing new ideas to life. I learn something new every day and I always look for ways to enhance my leadership skills. We’ve worked hard this year on rebranding our police patches, giving our department a more modern look. It’s fun to watch the teamwork and staff members take pride in this project. Everyone was able to provide input to ensure the patch reflected a commitment to our profession and community. We are excited to share it with our community at NNO.”
What is the present staffing of the Huntley Police Department?
Hooten: “We currently have 35 sworn officers. We are in the process of hiring five new officers to fill vacant positions due to transfers and retirements. We are excited to add to our staff. There will be several new faces around the community for residents to meet.”
What do you feel are the major challenges facing Huntley as growth continues?
Hooten: “Every law enforcement agency faces challenges in keeping up with the rapid advances in technology. It changes so quickly, and staying current in technology and with trends keeps us busy. Officers must continuously adapt to the changes.”
Describe the cooperation and professionalism within the Village of Huntley departments?
Hooten: “The Huntley Police Department often collaborates with village departments to find ways to best serve our community. All Huntley staff members are committed to excellence in everything we do. We are community focused and provide a high level of service to our residents. Being a new chief, everyone has helped me learn my new role when I have questions. It is such a great team to be a part of.”
